The love of art and the desire to pursue creative expression
is something that has been passed through the generations in Debra Valencia's
family.

She says she "inherited" her artistic talents from
her grandmother, who was a painter. Debra's father was also an artist. Now her
son is a student in art school following his own dreams.

At first, Debra was interested in a career as a fashion
designer. However, her parents wanted her to pursue something more practical –
as parents tend to do. Debra ended up discovering the joys of graphic design.
Now she brings her fashionable work into the homes of people everywhere.

CheckAdvantage is thrilled to present the art of Debra
Valencia on personal checks, address labels and checkbook covers as part of our
Licensed Artist Series.

Debra loves the opportunity to travel, and sees the world as
a place full of colorful inspirations. She is especially attracted to the works
of craftsmen and artisans from all over the globe.

"I love to scour marketplaces in exotic locations such
as Morocco, India and Thailand looking for interesting native designs, colors
and combinations," she says.

Her own eye-catching designs, which often include vibrant
florals and paisley patterns, are created by hand as well as with digital
techniques. Her work is joyful, feminine and timeless.

"My
primary customer is a woman with modern taste," the artist explains.
"I would like to make everything around her beautiful - from the items on
her desk to the kitchen to the jewelry she wears."

Debra Valencia has worked with recognizable brands like
Hasbro and Disney creating packaging and product designs as well as with big
names like Leonardo DiCaprio. She's also launched an award-winning greeting
card company Vida Valencia.

But deep down inside – she still has the heart of that five
year-old girl who dreamed of becoming an artist and visiting far away, exotic
locations. But now her dream is a reality!